SoHo High School remembers former teacher

JERI MARTINEZ/Reporter

Published 7:00 pm, Thursday, August 24, 2006

Spivey decided to retire in December 2005 after missing most of the semester due to his illness and moved to Abilene. He finally lost his battle on Aug. 11, at the age of 43. He was buried in New Mexico.

Business teacher Tim Keenley thought of Spivey as a loyal colleague from across the hall.

"There were times that he was in need and I was there for him," he said. "Like when he was without a car and I would give him rides home from work."

This also gave Kennley a chance to know his co-worker better and become good friends.

"After he retired in December he was put in the hospital so I would go and visit him to keep him updated on things that were happening," said Keenley.

During June and July, Keenley found out that Spivey's condition had worsened. Spivey always had a positive outlook on life, thinking of all of the normal things that he could do when he got better.

"I wasn't surprised about his passing since I knew it was coming, but he will be missed by everyone here at South Houston High School," Keenley said.

The most memorable aspect that will be missed about him is the upbeat energy that he had while working at the school. He had a great relationship with the students at the school.

The school held a special memorial service for Spivey on campus so the teachers could pay their respects.

The campus is raising money to help pay Spivey's family pay for the unexpected funeral cost. Cash and checks will be accepted by mailing or taking it in person to the school. Checks should be made out to Tim Keenley. The school's address is 3820 S. Shaver, South Houston, TX 77587.

A memory book is at the school for anyone wanting to write memories of Spivey for his family to read.